If you’re looking for support during childbirth and the following postnatal period, a doula might be the perfect fit for you. This Q & A with Sarah Tierce, also known as The Evergreen Doula from Albany, OR, was a fun way to get to know her and learn a little more about the services a doula provides. I hope you enjoy reading what she had to say. Her passion for helping really comes through in her words, and I’m excited to share that with you.
Find the Support you Need for Your Childbirth Journey with The Evergreen Doula Albany, OR
About Sarah Forrest from Evergreen Doula
“HI! My name is Sarah. I grew up in the Willamette Valley. I have a wonderful and supportive partner named Rocky. We share 5 children and a dog named Ollie. I teach yoga in North Albany at Love Yoga. I completed my doula workshop training in 2023 through Doula Love in Portland and have started my own business as The Evergreen Doula!
Q: What made you want to become a doula?
I have always had a caregiving nature. I grew up taking care of cousins and my younger brother, and I nannied for a lot of people throughout my teen years. I grew up knowing I was a helper and it’s what made me happy. I became a CNA and cared for many people in their homes and built lasting memories with them. Fast forward to having my own children-It was with my first child that I experienced the loving care, attention, support and knowledge from my L&D nurse(s). I had my mother and my partner there for me as well but there was a certain calm that my attending nurses had given me. Each one of them was so memorable and I was so grateful for their presence. Knowing that caregiving is what fills my cup, I wanted to give back in the same way. Empowering women to trust their bodies, the process of labor and delivery, and the continued support beyond birth is what I wanted to be a part of. My commitment to my family and our last child being medically fragile is what made me switch from wanting to be a labor and delivery nurse to becoming a doula.”
Q: What is a doula?
A doula is a trained professional who provides physical, emotional, and informational support to individuals before, during, and after childbirth. The word “doula” comes from ancient Greek and means “a woman who serves.” While traditionally associated with supporting women during labor and delivery, doulas can also assist and provide support to individuals and families during pregnancy and postpartum.
Q: Do I need a doula if I have a great midwife/doctor?
“As a doula we do not replace medical professionals, such as doctors or midwives, but we complement their medical care by offering continuous support, advocacy, and comfort. Our role includes assisting with relaxation techniques, offering encouragement, helping with communication between the birthing individual and medical staff, and providing information about childbirth options and procedures. As a doula I do not give medical advice, perform any clinical tasks or make decisions for the birthing person.”
Q: Do you only attend home births?
“I will be there whenever and wherever the birthing person decides to labor and deliver their baby! I offer my full support of home birth, water birth, hospital birth, medicated or unmedicated. My role is to offer support, education, empowerment and to hold space for the birthing person.”
Q: How does a doula interact with the medical staff?
“As a doula we interact with the medical staff in a supportive and collaborative manner, aiming to complement the medical care provided by doctors, nurses, and midwives. We are not giving medical advice or trying to persuade the birthing person in any way. We advocate for our parents and voice concerns or questions they may have but might not have wherewithal to speak up. We support the medical staff and know they too are there to help encourage and support the birthing person.”
Q: What are the benefits of hiring a doula?
“Oh boy! There are so many benefits to hiring a doula! Having a doula significantly enhances the childbirth experience, offering a range of invaluable benefits to individuals and even to their families. We are trained in childbirth education, providing continuous emotional support throughout the entire labor and delivery process. A doula’s unwavering presence not only fosters a sense of reassurance but also aids in effective communication with the medical team, ensuring that the birthing person’s preferences are acknowledged and respected.
There are studies that suggest that the presence of a doula may be associated with reduced intervention rates and shorter labors, contributing to a more positive and empowering birth experience!
As doula’s we also extend our support to the postpartum period, guiding individuals through the initial challenges of newborn care and breastfeeding.
Doula’s also offer support, encouragement and empowerment to the partner as well. We help them work through their questions, thoughts and feelings!
A final note from Sarah:
“As a doula, what sets me apart is the fusion of my genuine passion for supporting individuals through their unique childbirth journeys and my deeply empathetic nature. Bringing a blend of effective communication skills, ensuring that information is conveyed clearly, and actively listening to the concerns and desires of those I support. With a holistic approach, I understand that childbirth is a multifaceted experience, addressing the physical, emotional, and informational needs of individuals and their families. My adaptability shines through in various birthing environments, enabling me to navigate unexpected situations with poise and tailor my support to align with the evolving needs of each unique childbirth experience.
Additionally, my ongoing commitment to learning and staying informed about the latest in childbirth practices reflects my dedication to providing the most current and comprehensive support. Ultimately, my goal is to bring a personalized and empowering touch to every individual’s childbirth journey, making their experience as special and meaningful as they are.
I am excited to work with all sorts of families, and I am working on my state certification! It is important to me to become state certified because the state of Oregon now sees doulas as an important part of a birthing person’s care and we can bill OHP for our doula services!
I feel so blessed to be a part of this work. It is truly a passion and my calling and I can’t wait to share knowledge and hold space for those who choose me to be a part of their birthing experience!”
Q: What’s the best way to contact the Evergreen Doula?
The Evergreen Doula is available by phone at 541-619-8945 or email at evergreendoula24@gmail.com
She’s also available on Instagram as theevergreendoula, and you can reach out to her personally on Facebook.
The Evergreen Doula Albany, OR
Maybe you’ve always known you’ve wanted the support of a doula, or maybe you’re just considering whether or not a doula is for you. Either way, reach out to The Evergreen Doula Albany, OR for a chat. She’ll be happy to answer your questions and see if she’s a great fit for you.
Are you looking for a newborn photographer to document this beautiful time with your baby? For over 10 years, I’ve been photographing newborns and their families. Reach out and let’s chat. I’d love to capture these memories for you and your growing family. Albany Oregon Newborn Photographer | Jen White Photography
Have older kids? Check out this article on fun playgrounds to explore around Albany, Oregon! Super Fun Playgrounds Your Kids Will Love in Albany, Oregon (jenwhitephoto.com)
